Lionel Messi will retire from Argentina's national team following a farewell friendly against Benin, ending his international career at age 39. This marks a definitive close to a period in which Argentina could rely on Messi as their ultimate safeguard—a player capable of turning matches around almost single-handedly when needed most. Unlike his previous retirement in 2016, which was reversed following public pressure, this departure is permanent. Argentina begins its post-Messi era with fixtures against Bolivia and Burkina Faso.

Messi's international career transformed dramatically after 2016, when he initially withdrew from the national team. Once criticised for appearing insufficiently committed to Argentina, he ultimately won more trophies for his country than Diego Maradona, claiming two Copa América titles, one World Cup and reaching another World Cup final. His impact was exemplified during the recent World Cup, when Argentina trailed Egypt 2-0 with eleven minutes remaining—Messi produced a comeback victory. However, Argentina demonstrated capacity to perform without him, notably in a 4-1 victory over Brazil in March 2025 with Messi absent. Coach Lionel Scaloni has named a 35-player squad with 20 members who featured at the last World Cup, providing continuity as the team navigates this transition.